Fly On The Wall - Taylor Creek Fly Shop

Taylor Creek Fly Shops
FLY ON THE WALL
2016
Fishing News from Basalt-Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley
Spring 2014
www.taylorcreek.com
CHALLENGE OF THE
HIGH COUNTRY
Welcome to the 17th edition of our popular, underground
newsletter, Fly on the Wall. It is this year, 2016, which marks
our 40th anniversary here at Taylor Creek Fly Shop in Basalt.
From our humble beginnings in a tiny log cabin located at the
confluence of Taylor Creek and the Fryingpan River, Bill Fitzsimmons, created “Taylor Creek Angling Services” in 1976.
In 1981, Taylor Creek moved down the river to downtown
Basalt to a larger cabin located in the then called City Market
shopping center. That same cabin still sits adjacent to our current location, which we moved to in 1993. Though much has
changed around Basalt in the past forty years, much also remains the same. Sure, City Market moved down the highway
a few miles and we now have a 970 area code, but we shall forever remain a small drinking town with a big fishing problem.
Basalt was recently named one of the top fishing towns in
the country and was featured in the 2015 release of the book,
“25 Best Towns – Fishing for Trout” by Bob Mallard through
Stonefly Press. In the book, Bob states that, “Basalt, Colorado,
might be the finest fly-fishing town. Two of the top five trout
rivers in Colorado converge downtown – the Fryingpan and
the Roaring Fork. The fabled Colorado River is roughly thirty
minutes north of town. This alone is enough to earn Basalt a
spot in the book. Add to this a solid fly-fishing infrastructure
and a fly-fisherman-friendly culture, and it is a no-brainer.”
When I first came to the valley, one of our then guides, Sandy
Moore, allowed me to stay at his house while I was searching
for my own place to live. Coming from the suburbs of Denver,
I’ll never forget pulling into his driveway along the Crystal
River at the base of Mt. Sopris after my first day of work at
Taylor Creek in May of 2002 as a young 22 year old. Sandy
wintered in Mexico that year, leaving me to watch over his
house and dog until his return. I sat that very first night out
in his hot tub, looking at the majesty of Mt. Sopris, listening to
the rumble of the Crystal River ten yards away, thinking “life
cannot get any better than this.“ Jump forward to 2016 and I
still feel the same way. Granted, I know have a twelve year old
daughter, a bald head, and a few more fly rods.
One of my fondest early memories that same year was my introduction to Hunter S Thompson. The famous gonzo journalist lived just up the road from Basalt in Woody Creek. I
remember stepping into the Rainbow Grill (now the Riverside Grill) next door to our fly shop and waiting to be seated.
While waiting, I recall an older guy sitting down at a dimly lit corner table surrounded by a harem of beautiful, much
younger women. He had a tri-fold menu standing up and was
literally cutting lines of cocaine up behind the menu. When
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I asked another guide who that guy was, I was told that it was
the one and only Hunter S Thompson. For several years prior to his passing, Hunter would always have one specific lady
friend of his come into our store to pick up fishing supplies
for him. The twenty-something year old, raven haired beauty would slip me hand written notes from him with a list of
mostly obscure flies that he wanted I remember his affinity
with the internet and eBay when it first became popular and
he would buy dozens of very inexpensive Korean made fiberglass fly rod and reel kits that I’d have to spool up for him
and his lady friend. I always found it funny that he would
buy $10 rod and reel outfits where I’d then sell him (her) a
few hundred bucks worth of flies! She would either pay me
with crisp one-hundred dollar bills that probably still had cocaine residue on them or I’d have to call Hunter for his credit
card number when she went to pay. Looking back now, I find
it cool and somewhat comical to have had interactions with
Hunter S Thompson, but at the time I was simply just a kid
doing my job.
In going through our archives recently, I stumbled across an
old tri-fold pamphlet advertising our fly shop and guide services. In it, among other things, was the Taylor Creek Credo.
Say what you want about Bill, but he was forward thinking
and quite the business person. Bill’s original credo remains
relevant to this very day and I thought it’d be fitting to include it in this, our 40th anniversary newspaper; it’s a nod to
our past, applicable to the current, and forever fitting to our
future.
April 1982
Taylor Creek Credo
It is the Taylor Creek Credo that the developing ethic of trout
fishing which stresses the pleasure of the quest and downplays
the killing of the quarry, is the only hope for the future of our
beloved sport. We support those activities, laws, and organizations which promote the well-being of trout habitats, knowing
that only a healthy habitat will support a healthy population of
trout. We recognize that the pleasure of fishing must include the
belief that the waters being fished actually contain a viable population of trout; that the future will, as has the past, see a gradually increasing concentration of fishermen on available stretches
of water so that we and all other fishermen must approach our
sport with ever more consideration for the environment which
includes the watershed, the stream, the fish and the other fishermen. May we act so that our great-grandchildren may enjoy
the blessings we enjoy today.
-Bill Fitzsimmons and Koke Winter
TABLE OF
CONTENTS
Intro.......................................................................1
Challenge of the High Country������������������������2
Table of Contents............................................. 4-5
Mothers Day..................................................... 6-7
Big Fish, Little Ditch............................................8
Fishing Calendar............................................9-11
Planning a Guided Trip..............................12-17
The Brothers Hill..........................................18-19
Old is Gold....................................................20-21
Spring Pike Flies..............................................22-23
Fishing Photography.......................................24-25
New Products..................................................26-28
Must Have Flies...............................................29-31
Wader Repair......................................................32
Taylor Creek on the Web .................................33
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MOTHER’S DAY CADDIS
Believe it or not, May is the second slowest month of the year
in terms of fishing pressure. As hard as it to believe, there are
more fishermen spread out along the river in December and
January than there is in May. Don’t let this fact fool you as
the fishing is pretty incredible out there right now.
Rising rivers offer unique challenges to the angler as well as
the trout, but you can take advantage of the conditions and
turn them to your favor. Sure, there will be days you have to
choose your battles out there, but these conditions can make
the fish even more predictable when it comes to where they
hang out and what they choose to eat. Just because the water
is swift and becoming increasingly dirty, doesn’t mean that
the fish will be on hunger strike until July. The water visibility has been challenging early in the day but you can watch it
dramatically clear as the day progresses.
When the water is fast and visibility becomes an issue, this
pushes most fish right to the edges of the river. Now is the
time to be casting into the spots you would normally be
standing in. This is the time for heavier tippets and bigger,
eye-catching attractor dry flies, nymphs and streamers too.
It’s all about the caddis and stoneflies right now, who usually
take their cues to hatch from the ever-increasing volume of
water and brighter, hotter sun. Because of the raw numbers
of caddis on and near the surface, sometimes you need to
move upstream to a spot where the fish are turned on but the
blanketing hatch hasn’t quite happened yet.
There is a reason our Mother’s Day hatch is renowned as well
as downplayed by locals who want it all to themselves, and
this is the time to get off your butt and stay out until dark.
(You might as well train now for the twilight Roaring Fork
6
green drakes soon to come..!) You simply can’t dead drift
this hatch with any real success. Pick those flies up, lay them
down, skate, skitter and bump them to reassure the trout
after getting their attention. Nymph with worms, stoneflies
and your favorite caddis nymphs and pupa until the surface
bite materializes. In other words, go fishing.
Having more than one rod rigged and ready to fish will
increase your catch rate also. The fish can switch back and
forth between subsurface and top water feeding at a moment’s notice, and having one rod rigged with dries and
another with nymphs (or streamers) will save you rigging
time and make you a more effective angler.
Determining where the fish actually are in the river most of
the year can be a challenge in itself, but during runoff the
predictability factor tilts in your favor. All the fish want is to
relax in softer water while being on the edges of the current,
which enables them to lean out or come up to snatch a tasty
morsel once in a while before it whizzes by. Just give them
what they want, where they want it, and you will reap the
benefits through high water season.
-Scott Spooner
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FISHING CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
JanuaryWarm water temperatures keep the Fryingpan fish actively feeding
all month long. The weather can be a bit dicey at this time of year, so
keep an eye on the weather and pick a warm day. Even in less than
ideal weather, the river will still fish very well but keeping yourself
comfortable can be a bit troublesome. The upper river from the dam
downstream to mile marker 12 will fish best. Small midge and egg
patterns are key. Light fluorocarbon tippets of 6x and 7x are standard
fare. Some of the largest fish caught on the Fryingpan are landed
during winter, so don’t be left out in the cold.
March also brings the first mayfly hatches of the year. Blue wing
olives will be seen hatching on the Roaring Fork and the Colorado
rivers. These small, size 18-20 mayflies, produce big results and can
be seen hatching midday. A variety of BWO imitations should be
carried with you in all stages. Many of the resident rainbow trout
along the Roaring Fork and the Colorado will begin to spawn this
month, with many more spawning during April and May. Because
of this, egg patterns will again become effective flies. Don’t overlook
the fishing along the Crystal River either. From Redstone to Carbondale, the Crystal River emerges from hibernation and celebrates life
as BWOs and midges again come to fruition. The trout are not large
here, but solitude and good fishing are guaranteed.
Top flies- Bills Midge Emerger (20-22), CDC Transitional Midge
(20-22), HOH CDC Midge Adult (24), Skittering Zelon Midge (2022), Flashtail Mini Eggs (18), TC Red Midge Larva (20-22), RS2’s
(20-22), Red Disco Midges (20-22), Bling Midges (20-22), Biot
Midge (20-22), Freestone Emerger (20-22), Miracle Nymph (22),
Tim’s Mysis (16-18), Epoxy Mysis (16-18)
BIG FISH, LITTLE DITCH
When I ate my first vertebrate
it was a mistake, all guts and instinct.
The little bugger flashed right in front of my face.
I just sit in the silt and contemplate the meaning
of it all. What? No, I’ve never been farther
downstream. I’m all there is around here.
How often do I eat other fish? I mean,
sometimes it just happens. And bugs?
Sometimes I eat them just to remember.
Cameron Scott
Taylor Creek Fly Shop Guide
(First appeared in the Fly Fish Journal, Volume 3, Issue 4)
But mice. Mice do it for me. And frogs.
The occasional snake. I tried
to eat a baby duck once but it didn’t work out.
Hey, I do what I want. I stay up late
and sleep all day. When the ice thickens
and there isn’t much happening,
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Top Flies- BWO Sparkleduns (18-20), BWO Para Emergers (20-22),
Fryingpan Emergers (18-20), Para Quill BWO’s (18-20), Bills Midge
Emerger (20-22), Flashtail Eggs (14-18), STD’s (18-20), RS2’s (2022), Biot Baetis (18-22), Barr BWO Emerger (18-22), BLM’s (18-20),
Zebra Midges (18-20), BH Polywing Emergers (18-20), Tungsten
Hoover (20-22)
FebruaryIn the early part of the month, the Fryingpan will still be the place to
be. Unbeknownst to most, the majority of the BIG rainbows along
the Pan are late winter spawners. Though we never condone fishing
to actively spawning fish, this time period does yield good opportunities at sight fishing to big fish in shallow, clear water. Warmer daily
highs and longer periods of sunlight promote good midge hatches.
From mid to late February, the Roaring Fork and the Colorado again
become fishable after a long winter with no fishing pressure. Though
mostly nymphing opportunities exist, expect to find numbers of rising fish during the late afternoons and into the evenings. These fish
are full of piss and vinegar, so hold on tight. This is the beginning of
the pre-spawn period and many of the rainbows will be in vivid colors. Warm days will produce the heaviest hatches. This unique time
of year, from mid February through March, has become a dedicated
season in itself, dubbed as Fifth Season.
April-
Don’t be an April fool! April showers bring caddis hatches not May
flowers. The BWO hatches are still prime along the Fork and Colorado but now they are being seen in good, fishable numbers along
the Fryingpan in addition. The famous brachycentrus caddis hatch
is well known as the caddis hatch among caddis hatches. At times,
so many caddis will be hatching that it literally looks like it’s snowing outside. The trick to this “breathe-through-your-teeth” hatch is
to actually fish above the main wave of insects, where solid but not
heavy numbers of caddis are being seen. Fish will gorge themselves
during this hatch and often, when you catch a fish, you can literally
see their belly wiggle and move as so many caddis are in its stomach.
Look for the best fishing to take place during the afternoons but also
during last light as the caddis return to the river to lay their eggs.
Early periods of runoff can be encountered along the Roaring Fork
below the confluence of the Crystal River in Carbondale. If this happens, simply fish the upper stretches of the river or head on up to the
Fryingpan where conditions are more favorable.
Top flies- Spent CDC Midge (20-22), Griffiths Gnat (20-22), Bills
Midge Emerger (20-22), Fryingpan Emerger (18-22), Zebra Midges
(18-20), Freestone Emerger (20-22), BH Polywing Emergers (18-20),
Prince Nymph (14-18), Sparklewing RS2 (20-22), 20 Inchers (12-14),
Tungsten Winter Stone (18-20), Flashtail Eggs (14-18), 20 Incher
(10-14)
Top flies- Stimulator (12-16), Pearl and Elk Caddis (14-18), Ethawing Caddis (14-18), BWO Sparkledun (18-22), No Hackle BWO
(20-22), CDC Comparadun BWO (18-22), Deep 6 Caddis (16-18).
Z-Wing Caddis (16-18), Diamond Caddis (14-18), Electric Caddis
(14-18), STDs (18-20), BLM’s (18-20), Pheasant Tail (16-20), Barr
Emerger BWO (18-22), Prince (14-18), Cat Poop Stonefly (6-10), Je-
MarchBye, bye winter. Hello spring! Even though March can be a significant snow month in the high country, it is a special time of year for
the angler. Weather in the 40’s and 50’s can be had on any given day,
especially from Basalt to Glenwood Springs where the elevations are
lower. March equates to the first really good and consistent hatches
of the year. Count on having thick midge hatches on all valley waters, especially along the Fryingpan. The prime time of day to hit
this hatch is midday from 11am to 2pm. At times, so many fish will
be seen rising that you’ll think you’ve hit the jackpot, and you have.
rome Baetis (18-22)
MayMay can get a little squirrely when it comes to water conditions, but
be not afraid. Due to the cool water coming out of Ruedi Reservoir,
the BWO hatch on the Fryingpan is at its peak this month. The Fryingpan is renowned as one of the world’s best dry fly fisheries and
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FISHING CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
this is due in large part to the constant 40’-42’f. water temperature.
The Fryingpan, especially on weekends, can be a bit crowded as most
all other rivers in the Rocky Mountain West are too high and muddy
to fish with spring runoff in full force. Overcast days will produce
the best hatches. Even during bright, sunny days you will still have
numbers of risers but they will be limited to any overhanging shade
or overcast. Tandem dry fly setups are preferred as we often fish a
highly visible pattern followed by a less visible, more exact imitation. The Roaring Fork, Crystal and Colorado rivers are generally
rendered unfishable by the middle to the end of the month. If the
stars align though, and we get a cold snap, look for some truly spectacular fishing to take place. Caddis, BWOs, and stoneflies are the
name of the game. Some of the best float fishing of the year happens
just prior to runoff.
Top Flies- Sparkledun BWO (20-22), Fryingpan Emerger (20-22),
CDC Comparadun BWO (20-22), Para Emerger BWO (20-22),
Ethawing Caddis (14-18), Stimulators (12-16), Poxyback Baetis (22),
Pheasant Tails (18-22), STD’s (18-20), Sparklewing RS2’s (20-22),
Princes (12-16), 20 Inchers (10-14), Electric Caddis (14-18), Buckskins (16-18), Spanflex Stone (10-12), Cat Poops (6-8)
JuneSpring has passed us by and now it’s time for another amazing Colorado summer. It’s a magnificent time of year where we see both
spring hatches of BWOs, caddis and stoneflies, coupled with summer hatches of PMDs and green drakes. By far and away, the biggest
highlight this month is the beginning of our world famous green
drake hatch along the lower Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers. This
hatch typically begins during the last two weeks of the month. The
water is high and fast but typically clear, with the fishing equally fast
paced and frenzied. Earlier in the month, the water is often cloudy
but skillful anglers can bang the banks with large stonefly nymphs
and attractor patterns and can have some surprisingly good results.
The upper portions of the Roaring Fork near Aspen are often high
enough in elevation with a minimum of feeder creeks and tributaries
that even when the lower river is blown out with runoff, the upper
river is often in good shape. Thankfully, even though June is often
referred to as “mud-season”, we are lucky enough to have the Fryingpan River, a tailwater fishery, that is unaffected by runoff conditions.
Not only that, the Fryingpan begins to see the larger pale morning
dun mayfly hatches during this month. These glamorous insects provide hours of dry fly fishing enjoyment and ranks as one of the most
storied hatches along the famous Fryingpan River.
JulyJuly is go-time here in the Valley. Welcome to the fly fishing Nirvana Wonderland. The Roaring Fork and Colorado are float fishing
extremely well regardless of time of day. Superb evening hatches of
green drakes are commonplace. These massive mayflies also produce massive fish. July is also when the Crystal River fishes extremely well. Good hatches of caddis, PMDs and drakes can be seen on
a regular basis. Some of the best fishing will occur from Redstone
up to and above the historic mining town of Marble. The fishing on
the Fryingpan is really beginning to heat up as BWOs and PMDs
continue below the dam, with the beginnings of the drake hatch occurring along its lower reaches. July offers the best dry fly fishing of
the entire year in general along the Valley. This is also the time of
year to hit the high country up. Pristine alpine lakes and creeks are
in tip-top shape giving anglers the thrill of a solid hike in a drop dead
beautiful setting catching native Colorado River cutthroat trout and
brook trout. If I die and go to heaven, I’m sure it’ll be in the Roaring
Fork Valley during July.
SeptemberThe hillsides are lit up in peak color, and nothing can compare to the
scenery and marvelous fishing of September. This is a transitional
month where we still see the summer hatches of drakes and PMDs,
coupled with arrival of the fall BWOs. If you want all the benefits
of the August dry fly fishing with much less in the way of crowds,
September is your month. The infamous serratella hatch is in full
swing on the Fryingpan. This is the one hatch on the river that truly separates the men from the boys. The weather cools down and
temperatures range from the 50s up to the 80s. Cooler water temperatures also greatly benefit the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers.
The fish go back to feeding midday instead of early in the mornings
and later in the evenings. If I had to pick the best month of the year
for float fishing, September would be it. This is also the last month
of year to fish the beautiful surroundings of the high country. Brook
trout begin their spawning rituals and color up in magnificent hues
of oranges, greens, blues and whites. As the days become shorter, the
fish begin to feed heavily gearing up for a long winter.
Nymph (14-18), Red Copper John (16-18), STD’s (18-20), Tungsten
Hoovers (20-22), Batwing BWO (18-20), Pheasant Tails (16-20), RS2’s (20-22), Barr Emerger BWO (18-22), Jujubaetis (18-20)
Top flies- H&L Variants (10-14), Royal Wulffs (10-14), Cripple
Drakes (12), KGB Drakes (12), PMD Sparkleduns (16-18), Melon
Quills (16-18), Rusty Spinners (16-18), Stimulators (8-14), 20 Inchers (10-14), Prince Nymph (12-16), Copper John (14-18), Cat Poops
(6-8), Pheasant Tails (16-18), Thread Body Baetis (18), Barr Emerger
PMD/BWO (16-20), Swiss Straw Emergers (18)
Top flies- Sparkledun Flav (12-14), Drake Cripples (12), CDC Rusty
Spinner (16-18), PMD Flag Dun (16-18), PMD Cripple (16), BWO
CDC Comparadun (20-22), Para Emerger BWO (20-22), Saratella
(18-22), Pearl & Elk Caddis (14-16), STD’s (18-20), Tungsten Bead
Baetis (18-20), BLM Peackock/Black (18-20), Sunken Spinner (16),
Tungsten Hoover (20-22), Freestone Emerger (20-22), Biot Baetis
(18-20), Halfback Emerger PMD/BWO (18-20)
Top Flies- Sculpzillas (4-8), Stingin’ Clousers (8), Autumn Splendors
(4-8), Slumpbusters (8-10), Flashtail Hot Eggs (14-18), Ice Prince
(14-18), Red Copper Johns (18-20), Tungsten Bead Baetis (18-20),
Tungsten Hoovers (20-22), D-Midge (18-20), TC Red Midge Larva
(18-22), Zebra Midge (18-20), BH Polywing Emerger (18-20), Freestone Emerger (20-22), Ultra Bling RS-2 (22-24), Swiss Straw Emerger (18-20), Rainbow Warrior (18-20),
AugustIf there was only one month we had to fish the Fryingpan, it would
easily be during August. It’s no secret either. The Fryingpan is a
world renowned fishery and seemingly everyone is on the river fishing, or planning on fishing, the Fryingpan this month. The river is
well known for its large, educated fish and during August, these fish
seemingly forego their PhD’s and gorge on green drakes, PMDs, caddis, rusty spinners, ants, BWOs, serratella’s and mysis shrimp. There’s
such a huge smorgasbord and wealth of insects that the fish just flatout chow down. Crowds can be an issue, especially on weekends,
so if solitude is your game, the Fryingpan River should be waived
in lieu of the Roaring Fork, Colorado, Crystal or the high country.
These other rivers are no slouches during August. The float and wade
fishing is exceptional during August on the Roaring Fork and the
Colorado. So much so, that if you asked any of our guides what they
would be fishing, it’d be on the Fork or Collie. Flies begin to get
downsized as we commonly begin to fish flies in the 16-20 size range
again. Ditch the big bugs and beadheads and start fishing smaller
flies that are more subdued and natural in appearance.
Top Flies- Rogue Stones (4-10), Stimulators (8-12), Green Drake
Sparkleduns (12), BDE Drakes (12), Royal Wulffs (10-12), PMD
Sparkleduns (16-18), Melon Quills (16), Cat Poops (6-10), Spanflex
Stones (8-12), 20 Inchers (10-14), Prince Nymph (10-14), San Juan
Worm (10-12), Halfback Emerger PMD (16-18), Pheasant Tail (1418), Copper John (14-18)
Top Flies- Drake Sparkleduns (12-14), Drake Cripples (12), Irrestibles (10-14), 20 Inchers (12-14), Poxyback Drake (12-14),
Winged Drake Emerger (12), Princes (14-18), Pheasant Tails (1620), STD’s (18-20), RS2’s (20-22), Biot Baetis (18-20), Tungsten Baetis (18-20), Cat Poops (8), Rusty Spinner (16-18), Halfback PMD/
BWO (18-20), Snowshoe Emerger (16-18), Fur Ant (16-18)
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FISHING CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
NovemberCrowds are at their lowest during this month, and if it’s solitude you
seek, this is your time to come visit. Local anglers and hardcore trout
bums alike know that November is the secret season. Fishing is often
so good that won’t want to tell others about it. The nymph fishing is
often as good as it gets, yielding 20–30 fish being landed on any given
day. The weather is often unpredictable, so being well prepared and
dressing in layers are keys to being comfortable. The first half of this
month will parallel the same fish behavior as October. The latter part
of the month will see a change of insect activity. Gone are the fall
hatches BWOs, as midges become the dominate food source along
with eggs that litter the river bottom. The brown trout and whitefish
spawn is well underway now. If it’s big fish you’re after, this is prime
time. Both wade and float fishing opportunities abound.
OctoberThe dog-days of a scorching summer are long gone, leaving the trout
to feed opportunistically under much less in the way of fishing pressure. Brown trout in particular begin feeding hard, as spawning urges make these beautiful fish hyper-aggressive during the fall. It’s time
to hop in the boats and bang-the-banks with large streamer patterns
in hopes of hooking large, hook-jawed browns. Next to dry fly fishing, streamer fishing is the most visual fishing experience you can
have with a fly rod in hand. Large, size 2-8 streamers made of bunny,
marabou and various synthetics the size of a small fish are needed
to entice the large brown trout of the Lower Colorado and Roaring
Fork rivers. Meanwhile, on the Fryingpan River, hatches of BWOs
will be a daily occurrence with a few remnant hatches of Flav’s and
PMDs. Fall is often one of the best months to hit the mythical mysis
shrimp hatch. As Ruedi Reservoir begins to turn over, large numbers
of mysis shrimp often spill out of the reservoir and into the river
where the trout feed voraciously on them. This phenomenon can often lead anglers to catching the largest trout of their careers. Another
overlooked gem during this month is the Crystal River. Brown trout
from the Roaring Fork will move into the Crystal River in efforts to
spawn. This is especially true along the lower reaches above the town
of Carbondale.
DecemberThe Fryingpan fishes incredibly well in December. Meanwhile, the
Roaring Fork will be more hit and miss, dependent upon weather
and water temperatures. Milder weather will mean great fishing on
the Fork, while colder winter weather will slow things down a bit.
Even on the coldest of days, the Fryingpan will continue to fish. Not
only that, it’ll fish great! The upper river houses the warmest water
and thus the highest number of actively feeding fish. The Flats, Bend
Pool, Two Rocks, Old Faithful and 22 Inch Pools in particular are
popular with winter anglers. Sporadic rising fish can occasionally
be seen during the heat of the day. Just keep in mind that there’s no
need to hit the river first thing in the morning. The best time of day
to fish will be from 10:30am to 3pm. The Roaring Fork River below
Basalt can yield some incredible fishing when temperatures cooperate and warm into the thirties. Winter stoneflies, eggs and various
midge patterns are all that’s needed. Fishing to unpressured and hot
fish are what the Roaring Fork is all about during December.
Top Flies- Emergent Midge Adult (20-22), Idyl’s Midge Adult (2022), Bills Midge Emerger (20-22), CDC Emergent Midge (22), Matt’s
Midge (22-24), RS2’s (20-24), Biot Midge (20-22), Bling Midge (2022), Maggot Midge (20-22), 20 Inchers (10-14), Cat Poops (8), Poxyback Stones (12-16), STD’s (18-20), TC Red Midge Larva (20-22),
Freestone Emerger (20-22), Jujubee (20-22), Medallion Midge (2022), Tungsten Hoover (20-22)
Top Flies- Autumn Splendors (4-8), Sacrileges (4), Stingin’ Sculpins
(8), Ziwi’s (6), Sculpzilla’s (4-8), Para. Quill BWO (18-22), Sparkledun BWO (18-22), Flag Dun BWO (18-22), CDC Rusty Spinners
(16-18), PMD No Hackles (16-18), Sparkledun Flav (14), Prince
11
PLANNING A
GUIDED TRIP
Taking the guesswork out of what to expect for both guide and
angler definitely creates the beginnings to a successful day on
the water. Our goal is to provide a truly memorable experience,
whether it is your first time fishing with us or your hundredth. We
would like to know your expectations in advance in order to help
us accomplish this. Naturally, we are more than happy to answer
any and all of your questions. Please take a moment to read though
this in order better understand how we run our trips.
and return year after year to fish specifically with those individuals.
The sooner you let us know, the better your chances are that you
will have exactly who you would like to fish with. This does not
mean that we cannot sometimes squeeze in last minute requests.
We will do the absolute best that we can to accommodate last minute reservations. Simply give us a call and we’ll gladly help set up
your dates.
Setting It UpOnce you have determined the date(s) that you will be visiting our
area, give us a call. We take ALL of our reservations over the phone
so that we may speak personally with you about your trip. We will
discuss what type of trip and the number of days that you would like
to book. Whether you wish to wade or float, full day or half day,
we are happy to make it happen. If you are making reservations
We are blessed with year-round fishing and there are some notable
reasons as to when to make your reservations and when to come
and fish. We always suggest that you make your reservations at
your earliest convenience. This will ensure securing your preferred
type of trip, wade vs. float or half-day vs. full-day on the day(s) you
would like to join us. This is especially true if you would like to
request a specific guide(s). Many of our clients have favorite guides
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for multiple days, you may decide to try mixing up a wade trip and
a float trip. We may set you up with a couple of different guides if
you fish with us for multiple days, or we can keep you with the same
guide throughout your stay if you wish.
If you cancel within 48 hours of your reservation(s) we hold you
accountable for the entire cost of the trip(s). If you cancel outside
of 48 hours there is no problem.
Weather CancellationsWe do not cancel due to inclement weather as some of our best
fishing occurs when the weather is not as pleasant…besides the
trout are already wet! That said, we would not send you out in any
potentially dangerous conditions.
When we have determined your dates and what type of trip(s) you
would like, we simply enter you into our reservations book. We require a credit card number to hold this reservation. We DO NOT
send out confirmations as we feel holding your credit card is confirmation enough. Our cancellation policy is as follows.
What to ExpectFriendly, patient and highly experienced professional guides. Our
guides are full time professionals eager to show you a memorable experience on the waters of the Roaring Fork Valley. For nearly forty years
we have been guiding absolute beginners to expert world-traveled
Cancellation Policy- (48 Hours)
As we DO NOT require, nor take a deposit, we will inform you of our
cancellation policy at the time we request your credit card number
to confirm your reservation. We do make note that we have indeed
discussed our cancellation policy with you at your time of booking.
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PLANNING A
GUIDED TRIP
anglers. Whether you have every possible known piece of fly fishing gear or have never held a fly rod, our expert staff has the knowledge to teach you the basics or show even the most seasoned angler
something new! We love to see anglers of all ages and ability levels.
We are also well accustomed to guiding children as young as six
years and up. Equipment for the little ones is never a problem and
due to the nature of our rivers and the knowledge of our guides,
they will have a safe and fun day. The rivers of our valley are worldclass and it is our privilege to show you a special day on the water.
Trip PreparationOur shops both sit at elevations above 6000’ft. It can often take
a bit of adjustment, so take a day or two beforehand to aclimate.
If you have any limitations, let your guide know. They will know
where and how to show you a productive and enjoyable experience.
Every one of our guides is CPR and First Aid certified.
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What to BringA good attitude and positive trout karma to start the day is all you
need. Really though, if you have never tried fly fishing, booked last
minute, did not know you were next to world-famous rivers like
the Fryingpan and the Roaring Fork, or your luggage was sent to
Tibet, we can take care of everything. Equipment is PROVIDED
for within the cost of the trip. Bringing your own equipment does
not lessen the cost of the trip.
waders and heavy, warm socks during the warmest months, along
with layers of clothing during our cooler seasons. Polarized sunglasses are an absolute must! They provide eye protection and allow you
to see many of the fish that you might hook into. A hat and sunscreen
are also very important. Be prepared for weather and always have a
rain jacket with you as it will surely rain if you happen to forget it. All
of these items are available at our stores and we are always happy to
assist you in advance or when you arrive if you so require.
If you have your own gear, bring what you are comfortable with.
We fish typically 8 ½ to 9’ rods in 4 and 5wts for wade fishing and
9’ 5 and 6 wts for float fishing. A 3wt rod for dry fly fishing is often
a welcomed addition. We fish all floating lines for local waters. If we
feel that you should be using our equipment for one reason or another, our guides will provide you with it. Our area waters are cold even
in the summer. Thus, we wear lightweight Gore-Tex
If you are coming on business for a day or two, dragging piles of
ski gear or simply wish to use our equipment, you are more than
welcome to. If you’re bringing your own wading boots, Vibram
or other sticky-rubber soled boots are best. We supply Simms
Gore-Tex waders, G.Loomis, Sage, and Orvis rods!
What Does the Cost CoverAll of our trips include equipment, rods, reels, waders & boots.
We typically meet at one of our shops where transportation to and
from the river are then provided. The guides supply tippet, leader,
split shot, indicators and floatant. Lunch is provided for on full day
trips. Beverages (non-alcoholic) are provided on all trips.
Alcohol/Marijuana ConsumptionTaylor Creek Fly Shops operates on federal lands, which are not
owned by the state of Colorado, and therefore makes the consumption or possession of marijuana in such lands illegal. All of our
guides have coolers to accommodate your personal beverages and
food if you so choose to bring your own. We do not recommend
drinking alcohol in excess, nor will it be tolerated by your guide for
safety and liability concerns.
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PLANNING A
GUIDED TRIP
What Is Not IncludedFishing licenses and the cost of flies lost and/or damaged are not
included. Your guide will provide you with the correct flies, with
any lost/damaged flies being charged to your bill at the end of your
trip. Typically 4-6 flies on half days and 8-12 flies on full day trips
are common. Flies are generally $2.25 - $3.00 each. Fishing licenses are required for those 16 years old and up
One Day License $9
•
Five Day License $31
•
Resident Annual License $36
Non-Resident Annual License $66
•
Resident Senior Annual License (Over 65) $1
•
Additional Day Stamps $5.00 *
We strongly encourage you to purchase your fishing license(s)
prior to your trip.
You may do so by phone or over the web at the following:
*Additional day stamps can be added to lengthen the duration of
any license above.
•
•
Phone: 1.800.244.5613
Web: http://cpw.state.co.us/thingstodo/Pages/Fishing.aspx
When and WhereWe prefer to meet here at our Basalt store or at our store in Aspen.
All float trips are to meet in Basalt with no exceptions. At certain
times of the year, it may be in the interest of fishing to meet in
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Basalt, even though one is staying in Aspen. However, we will
meet you where it is most convenient. Special pick-ups and returns are possible if arranged in advance. Our shop opens at 8:00
a.m. daily and due to the nature of our waters being very cold -even
through June, July and August- there is not a terrible rush to get out
on the water. We typically ask for you to meet us around 8:30am.
Our guides arrive around 8 a.m. to prepare for your day. If you
show up at 8 sharp, be prepared to allow your guide a few minutes
to prepare his fly box and miscellaneous items. With over thirty
guided trips going out each day, we are more than used to writing
licenses, suiting you up in waders and boots, having lunch ready
on our way out to the river before you even realize you’re on your
way! Half-day trip times are dependant on time of year and will be
discussed upon making such reservations.
For current guided fishing trip pricing please click on the following
link. http://taylorcreek.com/colorado.htm
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THE BROTHERS HILL
Growing up in a fly fishing family may be the best blessing I could have
asked for. I nonetheless took the “request trip” to another level and got a
fly-fishing twin brother. No matter how much we would bicker or tease
each other, the river would always bring us back together.
Competing with each other came naturally to us whether it was on the
slopes or on the river. This too was a blessing because we would feed off
each other’s hunger to catch the bigger fish, not knowing that that competitive attitude would make us sharper behind the fly rod. In the early
1990s, my dad, brother and I would compete in the Aurora Reservoir
fishing tournament. My Dad remembers me being “grimly determined
to win the tournament” while my twin brother, Colin, was “out for a
good time” throwing rocks and waking me with sticks. That day Colin
won a fifty-dollar gift certificate and a loaded tackle box igniting a perpetual desire to destroy him in every angling facet imaginable for the
remainder of my childhood. Nowadays, we look back at that day with
big smiles as we share cold ones with our Dad along the banks of the
Colorado River.
In 2006 we set off to college and life’s road split us at the seams. Years
went by as I spent countless hours on the Taylor and Gunnison rivers
honing my craft with aspirations of becoming a professional fly fishing
guide. As I began to gain traction in the Roaring Fork Valley, my brother’s passion for fly-fishing was reignited as I would take him fishing on
his days off. Eventually, he too became a guide for another fly shop in
Summit County, Colorado and began his own career in the fly-fishing
industry. I often ask my parents if they foresaw this lifestyle for us, and they reply,
“We knew from the beginning that this life chose you.” Every morning
Colin and I would get up at the ass-crack of dawn to get elbows deep
in the cereal box and watch Jose Wejebe on The Spanish Fly from just
under two feet away from the tv. This is when my mother and father
realized they had spawned a couple of obsessed fly-fishing junkies. My
dad couldn’t be happier to have a couple of lifelong fishing buddies,
while my mom is still trying to wrap her head around the concept of
“fishing for a living.”
Rivers, like life, have many twists and turns. Regardless of the challenges and difficulties that come along, my family plans on forever casting
to the soft pockets among turbulent water. Colin and I fish together
regularly and still get into it often, but at the end of each adventure we
share remarkable memories. As fly fisherman, we round the next turn
in life, continuing to explore opportunities to out-fish each other.
Christian Hill
Taylor Creek Fly Shop Guide
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19
OLD IS GOLD
rigs not catching a single fish. The point is this; keeping up with
the Joneses is human nature. Go for it, but don’t do it because
you have the cash to show off. Nothing is more humbling than
getting one-upped by an angler wearing neoprene waders.
Shiny new things captivate many of you, myself included. The
tempting glint of an anodized reel, this year’s new mid/tip flex
darling of a rod, those spanking new Gore-Tex waders with a
zipper; you know where I’m going with this. We got to have it.
What is interesting to me is that I still fish with my very first
RPL 590 two-piece Sage rod and enjoy it very much. Why is it
that every year I feel compelled to get the latest and greatest?
Is it to keep up with the Joneses? Do I think it will make me a
better guide? Is it because some fly-fishing magazine is telling
me that it is a must-have and I won’t ever catch a fish again if I
don’t have it? The truth is, yes to all of the above.
Now for the big one. Will new gear make me a better fisherman?
The answer is yes and no. I really like new things. I have more
rods than any one person really should have. My fly boxes are
the closest thing I have to a 401K. Again, this is all by my choice.
I can tell the different nuances between a slow action 3 weight
and a stiff 4 weight. I know the different feeling of different fly
lines, and yes, mono does knot differently than fluoro. This information matters and does make you a better fisherman, but
there is no promise that you will catch more fish.
Let us first look at this from the manufactures point of view. They
need to keep us wanting, needing, and pining for their newest
gear. If they don’t, it’s just bad business. All of these for-profit
companies are trying to share the love of their passions. I get it.
I’m a paid fishing guide. I make my living by doing what other
people do for pleasure. However, do you think that the average
consumer would be able to tell the difference between a ten-yearold fly rod and a new one? I bet not. Does that matter? Not really.
However, the idea of having the newest tech helps. It helps because you believe in it.
But what makes all of this really interesting, is that none of it
is really better or worse than the other. It is all your preference,
your likes and your wants. That is what makes this sport so
wonderful.
In short, I can say with complete confidence that the fish really
don’t care what rod you’re casting or if that shiny, machined
reel is a click drag or disc drag. That stuff only matters to you.
The way I justify all of my gear is simple; all my light-weight
rods take me to my favorite rivers and my heavy-weight rods
take me everywhere else that is beautiful in the world.
I used to race bicycles and became obsessed with my bike
to an almost OCD level ($150 titanium seat clamp, a $90
water bottle holder etc). Was I any faster? Maybe? Or was
I faster due to the fact that I trained harder because I spent
a ridiculous amount of money and put more miles on my
bike? The fact could be that I just flat out got more fit; having
nothing to do with the 310 grams I that I was able to shave
off my ride. All the manufacturer did was make the newest
options available; that’s it. It was totally my choice to dive in,
with no regrets.
Glenn Smith
Taylor Creek Fly Shop Guide
Next, let’s talk about those pesky Joneses. I have never been the
one to covet, except for a really nice cafe racing motorcycle, a
handmade watch and a truck without a broken windshield. I
am a guy of simple needs. As any professional fishing guide will
tell you, looks and presentation can be everything, even before
you hit the water. The Joneses in our case are other guides;
guides with the new trucks, double rod carriers loaded with the
best of the best gear and a clean cooler. All of this can (?) make
a difference. Hypothetically, if you drop a client in the middle of
any fly shops parking lot without a single guide in sight and ask
them to choose which guide they want to fish with, you guessed
it. It will not be the 1986 Nissan with the duck tape on the side
window. But does it matter? No it does not! The gear is only
good if the guide has talent. I have seen some very expensive
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21
SPRING PIKE FLIES
Spring pike fishing has and forever will hold my full undivided
attention. Just as soon as the ice clears, you will find me wading
into some of my favorite reservoirs. This is the time of the year
when my “big fly” tying sessions finally have the chance to prove
themselves. I will be casting my brand new custom flies with
excitement, eager for the extreme striking power of voracious
northern pike. Throughout the winter, one may find me spinning
up new creations on my fly tying vice prepping for the months to
come. Lately, I have been working more on one particular pattern
than the rest; the Dahlberg Diver. Divers have been a cherished
pattern for many years, helping me fool many northern pike and
bass. Thanks to Larry Dahlberg for developing and mastering this
pattern, I now recreate variations of it on my own workbench.
My spring flies are prepared with knowledge gathered from prior
seasons, each with their own unique job in mind. My favorite diver
variations have proven to be the most universal warm-water patterns
that I fish. They can be fished in all columns of the water and can
reasonably imitate almost any large food source including mice,
frogs and fish. The spun deer hair head soars through the air effortlessly and pulls away from the water’s surface with ease. What stands
out the most about this style of head is its ability to force water into
a wake, making irresistible popping sounds on the surface and creating turbulence to the tail of the fly when fished subsurface. As the
name refers, these patterns dive when stripped and when given slack,
the fly will slowly rise back to the surface. I like to fish my creations
on both floating and sinking lines, altering leader lengths and tippet
sizes dependent upon the fish’s behavior.
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It is extremely rewarding to catch a pike (or any fish) on your own
creation. Shown are some of my favorite variations. Each one
incorporates the Dahlberg style spun deer hair head and collar.
The first is my own concept of his Mega Diver, a large but extremely
light fly. I like to use color variations of Big Fly Fiber, Flashabou
and grizzly hackle tied around 5”-10” inches in length for the tail.
The other variation of this fly that I tie is much heavier when wet,
diving deep when stripped. I tie it with many colors of magnum
rabbit strips and Flashabou tied 4”-8” long for the tail. The possibilities of the Dahlberg Diver are endless and you can incorporate
just about any materials into the fly that you like. In closing, when
you think pike, imagine seeing a wake charging in on your fly with
bad intentions.
Grant Nissen
Taylor Creek Guide
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FISHING PHOTOGRAPHY
– Beyond the Basics
Surroundings and Details
Most shots benefit from a sense of place. Don’t forget to show
your surroundings. We fish in some beautiful places, and
many people overlook this because they are too focused on
showing the fish. Take time to shoot pictures of the river and
don’t be afraid to get some of those macro bug shots that we
all love.
Keep em’ wet… but not your gear!
We all love the “grip and grin” photo of holding your fish as
close to the camera as possible, but that might not be the most
interesting way to take a picture of your trophy catch.
The most important thing to keep in mind is to make sure you
(or the angler) are holding the fish correctly. Don’t hold it with
your hands covering the front of the fish and don’t squeeze the
fish so tight that its eyes pop out! Additionally, don’t forget to
get your hands wet prior to ever touching the fish so as to not
remove their protective coat of slime. In the winter, take your
gloves off!
Gear
One of my most useful tools on the river is my polarized sunglasses. I also couldn’t shoot without a polarizing filter on my
camera. A polarizer helps to suppress glare and manage
reflections, allowing your camera to potentially see under the
surface.
The best way to take a picture of your fish is it to keep it close
to the water and always #keepemwet (a wildly popular fishing
hashtag). Another trick, which is important to keep the fish
alive, is to hold your breath for as long as you can. Once you
run out of air, chances are the fish will too, and it’s time to get
it back into the water.
Even though we love keeping our fish wet, we all dread the day
when our gear goes for a swim in the river. Many companies
have started to make waterproof bags that you can carry with
you on the river – use it when the camera is not in your hands
– and trust me; they are worth the additional expense. In case
you go for a swim, your camera won’t get wet and you won’t be
out hundreds or thousands of dollars!
Aperture and Shutter Speed
If you know your way around a camera, these two things are
critical for getting a good picture. One thing I always try to do
when taking fish pictures is to make sure I set a fast shutter
speed, so that when the fish flops out of my friend’s hands I
can still get a crystal clear shot. People always ask how to get
the shot where the fish is in focus but the person behind is
slightly blurred. This is an easy technique, but you need to be
careful when using it. To get that shorter depth of field, you
must lower (or open up) your aperture. I like to shoot at F/4
so that I don’t completely lose all detail in the people behind
the fish, but it still gives me a slight blur. You need to be careful where you focus your camera, because many times it will
focus on the face or background and you won’t get the fish to
look sharp. If the eye of the fish is in focus, the remainder of
your composition will generally work itself out.
Point of View
Most people don’t think to change it up and move around
when taking a picture. Once you start moving your feet and
changing up the composition of your shot, you might find
some exciting things happening to your images.
Getting low so that your lens is almost touching the water
gives added depth to your image, for example.
Getting up high offers a different perspective! We’ve all seen
drone images of beautiful scenery with the fisherman standing in the water. But don’t be fooled; you can get a shot like
that as well on your own two feet. Whenever you are near a
bridge, wait up there till your buddy gets to the perfect spot in
the water, then fire away.
If all of this crazy camera stuff isn’t for you, don’t worry,
because your guides have been doing it for years and know
how to get the perfect shot of you and your fish.
Shannon Outing
Taylor Creek Fly Shop Guide/Professional Photographer
There are many ways that you can change up your image,
often by simply taking a couple steps to your right or left – just
be careful not to fall in!
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25
NEW PRODUCTS
NEW PRODUCTS
50th Anniversary Abel Grateful Dead Reel
The 50th anniversary logo is the most sophisticated graphic ever used by
Abel. The intricate skull, roses, and EST 1965 banner are precision milled
into the reel frame before filled with proprietary epoxy paint results in
a stunning image you can both see and feel. The additional details are
meticulously painted by hand with an anodized finish. This reel can be
confidently fished in fresh or salt water, and the gold anodized handle
commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Grateful Dead. $995-$1130
G Loomis Pro4X LP
This incredible rod series has been sizzling with buzz appeal for its remarkable ability to cast precisely at both short and long distances with
a very large “sweet-spot”; hallmarks of rod designer, Steve Rajeff, who’s
widely renowned as the world’s best fly caster. The long and short of it
is this; you will not find a better rod (or warranty) at this price. When
conditions call for delicate casts and soft presentations using extremely
light leaders to help you fool spooky fish, the Pro4X LP rods are ideal. Just
like their NRX counterparts, these are smooth casting fly rods with gentle
tapers. They track true for exceptional accuracy and control, plus they are
exceptionally light and easy to cast. $375
Sage MOD Rod
Just like you wouldn’t pull out your driver when you need your seven
iron, the MOD is optimized for the distances and scenarios most often
encountered by the trout angler. Thoughtfully crafted with contemporary line designs and angling styles in mind, the MOD is a modern
interpretation of a moderate action specific for trout fisheries. Designed between the deep loading CIRCA and the fast action ONE, the
MOD excels at measured distances and the short game with pin point
accuracy. $850
Yeti Colster
Part of the Rambler series, this amazing “koozie” represents the next evolution in can-insulating, hand-protecting technology. All the powers of
modern science were brought to bear on this product to keep the contents
of your 12 oz can or bottle chilled, including double-wall vacuum insulation and a gasket that locks in the cold. The heavy-duty stainless steel
walls are sweat proof, and the last sip is just as cold as the first. $29.99
GoPro Hero Session
50% smaller and 40% lighter than other Hero4 cameras, the Session is
the most wearable and mountable GoPro ever. With a sleek, versatile
design, it’s at home anywhere. The Session maximizes battery life by only
using power when recording, and powers off when not recording. This
means you can capture a full day of photos and video clips or record 2
continuous hours of video. The built in battery can be charged with the
included USB cable with your computer or the GoPro Auto or wall charger. $199.99
Hatch Nippers
If there’s one thing you use a lot when you’re out fishing, it’s your nippers!
There’s nothing more frustrating than when you go to trim the tag end of
tippet and you have to find the “sweet spot” that is left on the blades of
your nippers. We all want a nipper that cuts the same way, every time.
USA made, surgically sharp, and they come with a complimentary adjustable lanyard. If you think about how often you use your nippers in a day’s
fishing, it makes sense to invest in a bulletproof pair. $100
Muchacha Women’s Vest
This exciting new vest is lightweight, breathable, and comes in a “one
size fits most.” The Muchacha Vest has 13 exterior and interior pockets, mesh backing for warm weather comfort, and a large easy access
back pouch for rain gear. Complete with fleece lined warmer pockets,
Hypalon tabs, gear attachment tabs, cord loops and a D-ring net lash,
this vest has it all and looks great. $139.95
Fishpond Summit Sling Pack
The most comfortable, durable and design rich sling pack available. With
their recycled fishing net nylon material, you can wear this pack knowing
you make a difference to help keep our planet healthy. Includes patented molded drop down fly/cargo bench with outside Velcro for fly foam
attachment, Hypalon and tool attachment features in all the right places,
and coated YKK water resistant zippers. Flexible TPE lash tabs for rod
tubes are well thought out, when Fishpond decides to make a product,
they make it the very best. $99.95
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NEW PRODUCTS
Chockletts Body Wrap
This awesome fiber is fused along both ends so you can cut the
length of the fiber you will wrap around your hook or articulated
shank wire. For a tapered body, trim the fibers to be longer at one
end and shorten down towards the other. You can wrap the fused
ends around the shank like chenille. Two yards are included in every package, and this is a pretty exciting material to add to your
tying arsenal. $9.99
Cody Richardson Art Work
Cody Richardson, a Colorado Native, blended his two passions into
one. Combining his love for fly fishing and woodworking into individual pieces of art, his pieces are distinctive and look great hanging
on the wall at home. Over the fireplace, in the den, or in the fly
tying room, these amazing pieces draw the eye and compliments as
well. We are pleased to offer his unique art here at Taylor Creek Fly
Shop. $325-$595
MUST HAVE FLIES
Bread n’ Butter Bugger
What can we say about a Wooly Bugger that you don’t already know? It’s the most popular,
time-tested and versatile streamer (dare I say fly) in the country. Well, this one is vanilla colored. Why vanilla? When fishing streamers we typically have three considerations to make;
movement (fast or slow), depth (shallow or deep) and color (either light or dark). The right
color can be important. The vanilla version is simply a muted white. It’s not overly bright
(like an all white fly) which can spook fish, but rather just “light” in color. Many of us prefer
fishing the Bread n Butter Bugger simply because you can see it in the water. It makes an
already visual experience, more visual. Available in Sz.4 and 6, Vanilla, $4
Carlton Banks
This unique streamer is a style of fly rather than a specific pattern. Trent Tatum of North
Platte Anglers commercialized this “double-bugger” where it quickly became the go-to
streamer up north. With massive articulated streamers being all the rage these days, it’s
refreshing to see a smaller and more slender version better suited for trout of all sizes. As
the name implies, this fly has some serious dance moves! Available in Sz.4, Purple, Olive
and White, $4
CDC Sparkledun PMD
The Sparkledun is a fly that many think have magical qualities surrounding it. It’s simple
to tie and can be tweaked to match any mayfly. While the deer hair wing floats decently
and is fairly durable, it can be a pain in the ass to tie right, mostly due to the fact that really
good deer hair can be tough to find. Add in the time of preparing the hair (combing out
the underfur and stacking the hair) and you’ve got quite a commitment on your hands. It
was really just a matter of time before people started substituting cul-de-canard (CDC) for
the wing. CDC is more durable than deer hair, and when treated with desiccant (powdered
floatant) floats higher and for longer periods of time. I also like the fact that this fly is tied
with a biot body, providing segmentation and realism yet will not soak up water like a
dubbed body. Available in Sz.16, $2.25
Crack Back PMD
Some flies you can just look at and know that they will fish. The Crack Back PMD is one of
those flies. It’s tied on a heavy wire, wide gap scud hook, making it strong enough to tackle
those cart-wheelin’ freestone rainbows on the Colorado and Roaring Fork, in addition to
the Fryingpan. This fly really shines post runoff, from late June to early August. A muted
black nickel tungsten bead ensures depth while not spooking wary fish. The biot body
gives the fly durability and segmentation while the darker thorax gives good contrast, especially with the hot spot of a splitting wingcase. Think of this fly as a more exact imitation
of a PMD nymph instead of the standard Beadhead Pheasant Tail. Available in Sz.16, $2.25
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MUST HAVE FLIES
MUST HAVE FLIES
Foamwing RS2
If you’ve spent any time fishing in Colorado, you undoubtedly are aware of the RS2. Most
commercially tied versions rely on Zelon for the emerging wing, making it more of a subsurface emerger than a surface emerger. When fish get focused on midges hatching in the
surface film, this is a superb fly to use. We most often employ this fly as a dropper pattern,
trailing it behind a midge adult like the Stillborn Midge mentioned previously. Guide tip
- A few of our wade guides use this fly with regularity on the Fryingpan River during the
summer months, fishing it right through “masking” hatches of PMD’s and Green Drakes
with wild success. When fishing the Foamwing RS2 in the film, only apply silicone floatant
to the white foam, allowing the body of the fly to sit below the water’s surface. Available in
black (midge) or gray (baetis), Sz.20-22, $2.25
Royal Wulff Cripple
I’ve got admit, I was kind of reluctant to include this fly into our newsletter. It’s been such
a great “secret” fly pattern for me that I wanted to keep it under wraps. What’s funny to
me is that this fly has been extremely popular in Montana, probably due to the fact that it
was popularized by Rowan Nyman and Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone, Montana,
yet has not gained traction in Colorado. I’d be willing to bet it’s because Colorado is the
nymphing state, better known for its tiny midge and baetis patterns for tailwater trout. Rest
assured, is you’re a dry fly nut (like I am) and enjoy fishing attractor dries on freestones
and in pocket water – this is going to be your new favorite dry fly. Available in Sz.16, $2.25
HOH Green Drake Hackled Spinner
An oft overlooked stage of imitation for our famous green drake hatch is the spinner.
Anglers fishing during the late evenings and in particular, early morning fishing sessions
during the summer, should have a secret stash of this fly held up in the corner of their fly
box. I can’t tell you how many times in recent years I’ve personally been caught without
this fly as fish are slowly rising in backwaters solely focused on green drake spinners. It
seems to me that green drake spinners are quickly becoming of more and more importance
each and every year. Stop tweaking and cutting down your green drake duns trying to
make a spinner (!) and use this specialty tie from the brainchild of Rene Harrop. Available
in Sz.12, $3
Quigley’s Split Flag Adams
As the name implies, this new-school version of the venerable Adams parts from tradition and brings a good update to a classic fly. Whether you want to fish it grande for an
evening drake hatch on the Fork, during a callibaetis hatch on a high lake, or in a size 20
for a blue wing olive on your favorite stream, the Split Flag Adams is one of our perennial
favorites. It retains the moose tail, gray body and mix of grizzly and brown hackle of the
standard Adams but received updates in the form of a quill body, flush-cut hackle and most
importantly, the addition of “split flags”. Think of these split flags as a double-parachute
or cripple overwing. Who says you can’t reinvent the wheel? Available in Sz.12-20, $2.25
Jerome Baetis
A true guides’ fly; simplistic, effective and tough, just like famed running back Jerome
Bettis. As some of you know, the baetis (BWO) nymphs in our valley are extremely dark,
bordering on being black or very dark olive in color. The olive thread abdomen with contrasting black wire gives this fly the appearance of a segmented biot body, but is easier to
tie and more durable. Many of you also know that the wary fish on the Fryingpan River in
particular despise the “bling” and flash of gold beadheads. Like the Crack Back PMD, we
lean towards using muted, black nickel beads in lieu of gold or copper. This fly is really just
a spin on Tim Heng’s popular BLM (Beaded Little Mayfly) and likewise uses Angel Hair
for the legs and carapace of the thorax. When fish are focused on baetis nymphs (which
is seemingly almost year-round), this is a pretty tough fly to beat! We fish the 18’s on the
freestones and the 22’s on the Fryingpan. Available in Sizes 18-22, $2.25
Stillborn Midge
Creating an effective midge adult dry fly is not as easy as one would think. For starters,
midges are diminutive in size. They need to be slender and slight, yet float high and be
visible enough that you can see the tiny fly out at twenty yards. A body of wrapped Krystal
Flash maintains a slender appearance and does not soak up water. The peacock herl head
almost guarantees the fish catching properties of the fly. A turn or two of grizzly hackle
provides floatation and movement while giving the appearance of moving legs. A pair of
long white hackle tips designed to imitate the down-wings of a midge adult also provide
good visibility for the angler, but perhaps the secret to this fly is in the white foam thorax
that’s tied in ala skate/wake style. The foam soaks up silicone floatant well and is visible at
almost any distance. This fly dominates during Fifth Season midge hatches on all valley
waters. Available is Sz.20-22, $2.25
Pulsating Emerger
We kind of stumbled upon this fly by accident. We actually ran out of our guide favorite,
the Biot Midge Emerger one summer and a few of our float guides started to run this eerily
similar fly with raving results. It’s essentially the same bug; goose biot body and a hen
hackle tied in ala wet-fly fashion. Where this fly differs is in the pearl glass bead thorax,
which gives off a subtle glint of flash. During heavy hatches or during periods of overcast,
the soft glint of flash allows the fish to find your fly easier through the masses of insects.
We carry this fly in two colors, gray and black, allowing you to cover our BMW (baetis,
midge, whatever) hatches in spring and fall. Available in Sz.18-22, $2.25
Weir’s Sculpin
Professional snowboarder turned professional fishing guide, Mikey Weir, has given us a
solid sculpin imitation that we’ve used over the past year with great success. I’ve come to
really believe in this fly. It’s heavily weighted lead eyes gets the fly down in the strike zone
AND keeps it there with a good up/down jigging motion. Like most good flies, its secret
lies in its simplicity. This fly features great movement thanks to the marabou and grizzly
hackle body. Best yet, it won’t cost you an arm and a leg like the new-fangled, multi-hook
streamers that are popular with trophy fishers. Try it out on your next fishing adventure
along the Roaring Fork and Colorado rivers. Available in Sz.4, Olive/Brown, $4
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WADER REPAIRS
Taylor Creek on the Web:
Social Media
Can you not get enough of Taylor Creek Fly Shops? Are you one of those persons that always want to know what’s going on along the
Fryingpan, Roaring Fork, Colorado and Crystal rivers? Taylor Creek stays cutting edge and was one of the first fly shops in the country
to embrace social media. We invite you to follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and on our shop Blog. That sounds like a lot of
technology for a bunch of mountain fishing bums I know, but each serves a very distinct purpose.
www.twitter.com/tcreekflyshop
www.facebook.com/
taylorcreekflyshops
www.plus.google. com/+TaylorCreekFlyShops
Are your waders letting more water in than they are keeping out?
All waders, regardless of the brand, will eventually leak. With all of
the thistles, thorns and brush we encounter in a day’s fishing, it isn’t
a question of if your waders will get pinholes, but when. Extending
the life of your waders is easy, up to a point.
GoreTex ™ waders cost more than most others, but are a snap to
repair, even on your own. The expense is justified once you realize how much more breathable and abrasion-resistant they are as
well. To find pinhole leaks in a GoreTex™ wader, simply turn them
inside out and lay them on a flat surface. You can pick up isopropyl
alcohol at any grocery store or pharmacy, and having a spare spray
bottle helps, too. Lay the wader flat, spray it down with the alcohol,
and watch the little black spots start to appear. The alcohol reacts
with the material, showing you all of the tiny perforations. Once
the leaks are identified, simply smear a small amount of Aquaseal™ (or your favorite urethane adhesive) on the spot, and repeat on
both sides (front and back) of the wader.
Waders made from other materials can be a little trickier, but still
repairable. The easiest way to identify leaks is to grab a flash light
and a marker, and head to a dark room. In the dark, move the
flashlight around inside the wader, and leave a mark with your
marker where the light is showing through. You can then seal
those spots, preferably on the inside as well as out. Leaks in the
neoprene stocking foot require a different technique. Fill the wader foot with water, then compress and squeeze the leg down to the
foot, which should start leaking water at the hole(s). Take note of
the spot, and hit it on the inside and out with sealant.
There is a point in any wader’s life that it simply gets beyond the
beyonds. It always hurts a little, but then again, nothing beats a
new pair every few years. Stay dry out there!
Scott Spooner
bad intentions.
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www.taylorcreekflyshop.
blogspot.com
Twitter - Twitter allows us to quicky update you on the latest news in a quick
text messaging like format. Severe weather, special in-store only sale specials,
current hatch reports, newest guide-tech, hottest flies, water conditions and
more are updated daily.
Facebook - Facebook’s mission is to give people the power to share and
make the world more open and connected. Millions of people use Facebook
everyday to keep up with friends, upload an unlimited number of photos, share
links and videos, and learn more about the people they meet. In general, our
Facebook page is a more informal, vibrant expression of who we are in a more
intimate setting which allows you to get to know us better.
Google+ - What seperates Google+ from other social media outlets is that
it helps you build new connections (and make new friends), find interesting
people and discover content that can surprise and delight you.
Blogspot - Follow our blog for the most in-depth current fishing reports and
techniques. Actually hear how the fishing really is from our own experiences
and time on the water with a no “B.S.” attitude. It’s like listening to a conversation amongst guides. It’s a no frills, hardcore look at our lives and experiences
on and off the water.
In a nutshell:
Twitter is for communicating with people you Don’t Know.
Facebook is for communicating with people you Used to Know.
Google+ is for communicating with people you Should Know.
Blogs are a way of communicating your thoughts to anyone interested
through a personalized web based log (blog)
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